Goliath Birdwing vs Sara Longwing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Goliath Birdwing Sara Longwing
Scientific Name Ornithoptera goliath Heliconius sara
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Papilionidae Nymphalidae
Size 150-210 mm wingspan 55-70 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Oceania (Papua New Guinea, Moluccas) Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Central America
Conservation Near Threatened Least Concern

Goliath Birdwing

One of the largest butterflies in the world, found in the rainforests of Papua New Guinea and nearby islands. Males are brilliantly coloured with green, yellow, and black markings. Females are larger but more subdued in colour.

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Did You Know?

Despite its enormous size, the Goliath birdwing is a powerful and graceful flier, often soaring high above the forest canopy.

Sara Longwing

A striking longwing butterfly with velvety black wings marked by brilliant blue iridescent bands. It roosts communally in groups at night.

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Did You Know?

Groups of up to 15 individuals return to the same roosting branch every evening for months, guided by chemical cues.